Mia and the Lightcasters

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Janelle McCurdy's "Mia and the Lightcasters," the captivating first installment in the sensational Umbra Tales series! Perfect for young readers and fantasy enthusiasts alike, this thrilling paperback published by Faber & Faber in 2022 plunges you into a world brimming with shadows, magic, and courageous heroes. Mia has always lived in the shadow of her fears, ever since a fateful encounter on the perilous Nightmare Plains shattered her dreams of becoming an Umbra Tamer. Preferring the safety of Nubis's walls, Mia believes she can escape the darkness. However, fate has other plans. A sudden, devastating attack shatters her peaceful existence, leaving her parents captured and her world turned upside down. Now, Mia must overcome her deepest anxieties and embark on a perilous quest to the City of Light, the last beacon of hope in a world threatened by the encroaching darkness and the ominous Reaper King. Her mission: to seek help and rescue her family. Armed with only her loyal little brother, two steadfast friends, and a single, solitary tamed Umbra, Mia faces seemingly insurmountable odds. The journey is fraught with danger, testing the limits of their courage and resilience at every turn. But Mia's journey is not just about rescuing her parents; it's about discovering her true potential. As she navigates treacherous landscapes and confronts terrifying creatures, Mia must learn to harness her dormant Umbra taming abilities. Only by embracing her destiny can she hope to complete the quest in time and save her loved ones from the clutches of the Reaper King. Prepare to be swept away by McCurdy's richly imagined world, brought to life by Ana Latese's stunning illustrations. With its intricate world-building, compelling characters, and heart-pounding action, "Mia and the Lightcasters" is a must-read for fans of immersive fantasy adventures like "Amari and the Night Brothers," "The Legend of Podkin One-Ear," and "Nevermoor." This enchanting tale explores themes of courage, self-discovery, and the power of friendship, making it a perfect choice for readers aged 9-14 and anyone who loves a thrilling, imaginative story. Dive into the Umbra Tales and discover a world where shadows hold secrets and heroes rise from the darkness! With 416 pages of captivating storytelling, this book will transport you to a world you won't want to leave. Weighing in at 741g, this substantial paperback promises hours of reading pleasure and a thrilling escape into a realm of magic and adventure. ISBN: 9780571368433 (ISBN-13) and 0571368433 (ISBN-10).